UPDATED: Police are this afternoon (Saturday) hunting for 2 men who they would like to speak to regarding suspected rogue trader incidents on the Isle of Wight, including the targeting of a couple in their 90s.
Yesterday lunchtime the 2 men were sighted in a white Ford Transit van by residents in Brading. The men were acting suspiciously and offering to clear trees and cut hedges with no set price list.
Thankfully, a number of residents were aware of such activities being deemed suspicious in the past and refused to do business with the duo. However, the van was already full with green cuttings sparking fears that others may have taken up the offer which is normally targeted at the elderly and charged at over-the-top prices.
Earlier today, having seen the alert on Island Echo’s Breaking News group on Facebook, a resident of Perowne Way confronted the men whilst they were cutting a neighbour’s hedge. Upon mention of the Police the suspected rogues fled the scene, leaving the job half-done.
Island Echo understands the men – trading as ‘J&M Tree and Garden Services’ with an 0800 telephone number – tried to charge the couple in their 90s a total of £240 to cut the hedge; a job valued at £40 by a reputable tradesperson.
Police have attended the scene in Sandown and have now circulated the vehicle’s information to all officers in a bid to locate the wanted men. The van is untaxed.
UPDATE @ 15:40 – 6 Police units have descended on Wightlink’s Fishbourne ferry terminal this afternoon and have seized 3 vans after requesting the ferry to return to port.
Officers are probing a group of Irish men, who have been escorted off the ferry. A child is also present.
It is thought the 3 vehicles have been working the Island together before making their ‘getaway’ to Portsmouth. All 3 are untaxed.
It is unclear if any arrests have been made at this point.
A duty inspector has been called to the scene.
UPDATE SUNDAY @ 08:45– Police would like to speak to anyone who has been contacted by suspected rogue traders over the past few days as Hampshire Constabulary launch ‘Operation Liberal’.
It has been confirmed that individuals have not only been offering services such as tree cutting, but also facia repairs.
Anyone who has been contacted by the rogue traders to have work done, or has information relating to the investigation is asked to contact PC 3820 Taylor on [email protected] or via 101 quoting ‘OPERATION LIBERAL’
Advice
– If you’re not sure, don’t open the door.
– Lock all doors, even when at home
– Use a chain or spy hole
– Stop unknown people from entering
– Tell the police about unwanted or suspicious callers by calling 101
– Keep an eye out for you neighbours and vulnerable people in your area who may be targeted
If it’s an emergency, it’s always 999. You can also provide information to the independent Crimestoppers charity if you wish to stay anonymous by calling 0800 555 111. If you have suspicions which you wish to report to police call 101.
https://www.hampshire.police.uk/news/campaigns/be-aware-doorstep-criminals/
